Spring adventures on a student budget

By Melissa Gilbert|Staff Writer|

Spring is the perfect opportunity to take a break from school or work.  Most students don’t have a lot of money to place towards fancy outings, but there are a few things you can do this season to enjoy the sun at a low cost.
The beach is the number one place to soak up some sun and the best thing is, it’s free.
Venice Beach is significantly less expensive than most other beaches in that area.
It’s famous for its edgy artists, highly animated boardwalk and stately body builders.
Just a few minutes away from Santa Monica, Venice Beach offers a festive and eclectic feeling without costing too much.
Not only is it quite the sight, the water is perfect for beginning surfers.
If you don’t own a surfboard, you can easily rent one from one of the many surf shops.
Another destination is local amusement parks.
Places like Raging Waters or Hurricane Habor are great activities for spring.

At this time, there is not a lot of people, so it makes it possible to enjoy rides many times without having to wait as long.
“Raging Waters is a great waterpark; what I like the most is that there is a wide range of slides,” said freshman Jasmin Quintero.
The season pass is well worth it if you plan to go more than once. Adult admission is $38.99, and the regular season pass is $59.99.
It also gives you access to discounts on food and retail stores onsite.
Bringing your own picnic is helpful too, because food can be very pricy at amusement parks
Hiking is another fun alternative.
The mountains in the area are amazing for hiking. If you are a beginner, you don’t need a lot of fancy gear.
A big bottle of water, a backpack, and a good pair of hiking boots is all that you’ll need.

The Third Stream Falls trail in Rancho Cucamonga is not too tedious and has a lot of beautiful scenery.
The climb is approximately six miles long.
“Note that the first part of the trail is steep, but it gets easier as you go. If you take your time, everything will be fine,” said student Oliver Gauthier, who has hiked there many times.
Before getting started it is better to report your presence on the trail at the rangers’ office and get a map of the area.
CSUSB also offers their Outdoors program at the Recreational Center.
Not many students know this, but it offers a wide range of outdoor activities for a fairly cheap price.
The trips are open to students, faculty, alumni and the community.
The trips include backpacking, Yosemite National Park, an introduction to rock climbing, kayaking in Santa Barbara, snorkeling in La Jolla and hiking at Zion National Park.
The price covers the food for the trip, transportation, the gear they lend, as well as lodging, if necessary.
Sign up as soon as possible, spots on these trips fill up quickly.